Gangtok Stadium Gets facelift

The work of laying artificial turf has begun in war footing at Paljor Stadium ground from 1st of January 2011. The artificial turf to be laid at Paljor Stadium is known as the Field Turf Outdoor Series of 65 mm thickness, which is same as laid at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata.

The work is being carried out by American based company; Field Turf Tarkett in association with Great Sports Infra Private Limited of India. The works is scheduled to be completed by 31st of March 2011 at a cost of Rs 3.77crores that has been sanctioned as the cost of the project.

Speaking to media today, the Secretary for Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Mr. Karma P Bhutia said that this artificial turf has been manufactured in Georgia, USA and it is maintenance free and comes with warranty for eight years. Adding further said that the artificial turf of same quality is laid at Salt Lake Stadium, Kolkata, which have been rated two stars by FIFA. Adding further Mr. Bhutia informed that after completion of the work FIFA or AFC will inspect our ground and would provide rating accordingly. Similarly added that there will be sub-grade consisting of different sizes and aggregates below the turf, which will be rolled and compacted with slopes towards the eastern and western galleries for rain water outlet and Silica and rubber granules would also be pasted on the top of sub-grade.

Secretary further added that once the artificial turf laying is over then the ground can be utilized for any sports inclusive of football which would not damage the surface. Furthermore secretary added that the ground can be used six days a week and no damage in the surface will be seen as this turf is maintenance free too. He added that the game of football here in Paljor Stadium will be faster due to the turf and skilled players would be able to showcase their skills as well.

In regards to work initiated on artificial turfing, Secretary said that the department is supervising the work to ensure quality. Similarly in respect to other developments of ground across the state the department is trying to develop Khel Gaon for athletes and football and similarly Tadong college ground is considered for development soon.

Bhaichung Stadium in Namchi is also to be developed soon to a world class stadium along with Kyongsa, Gyalshing and public ground of Mangan. As per the directives of the Chief Minister an Archery Academy is on the pipeline in South Sikkim along with those medal prospect sports of state like Taekwondo, Wushu, Boxing , Badminton and others are also to be given priority in infrastructure, coaching and availability of equipments for their development.

Courtesy: Sikkim Mail